RPI hockey announces seven-player recruiting class

RPI hockey has announced its recruiting class of freshmen for the upcoming season. The RPI press release:

TROY, N.Y. – Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) head men’s hockey coach Seth Appert has announced the team’s Class of 2018, which includes four forwards and three defensemen.

“We are excited to announce our Class of 2018. Bryan Vines and Nolan Graham have worked extremely hard to put together a nationally competitive class with players from throughout North America and Europe. This group adds speed, offensive ability, hockey intelligence and competitiveness to our program. More importantly, these young men come from great families and will add to the character and culture of our program.”

Below is the list of Rensselaer’s recruits with their 2013-14 statistics and a quote from Appert:

“Viktor helped Fairbanks to a championship in the NAHL in his first season in North America. He adds size, intelligence and skating ability to our program with the potential to become an elite power forward.”

“Drew comes from one of the best junior programs in the United States where he competed in the league finals. He is an elite skater who will enhance our team speed and offensive ability. He has also gained experience while representing the USA at the Ivan Hlinka U18 Tournament.”

“After earning success in Minnesota High School, the BCHL and the USHL, Louis joins the Engineers as is an elite skater who will add speed, talent and competitiveness to our program. He has also competed for the USA at the Ivan Hlinka U18 Tournament.”

“Bradley comes to us after a strong two-year campaign for his hometown junior team. He is a skilled two-way defender who will add offensive playmaking ability while also bringing a competitive physical presence to our defensive corps.”

“Michael joins us after leading his team to the Royal Bank Cup in Canada. He is an elite offensive defenseman who will add intelligence, mobility and offensive production from our back end. He also earned valuable experience representing Canada East at the World Junior Challenge.”

Jared Wilson (6-3, 200) from Calgary, Alberta / Vernon Vipers (BCHL)

79 games … 8 goals and 35 assists for 43 points

“Jared joins our program after helping his team to the Royal Bank Cup semifinals in Canada. He is a talented two way defenseman who can provide offensive ability while also providing a physical presence as a defender.”